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Oversize Load Permit Requirements — District of Columbia
Legal size/weight limits, escort thresholds, travel restrictions, and permit office contact for District of Columbia.
These figures are a reference summary of publicly published state rules, not a substitute for a state-issued permit and not legal advice. Rules change — always confirm current limits and requirements directly with the state permit office before you plan or run a move. Last verified: 2026-06-28. Oversize Ops is NOT responsible and CANNOT be held liable for decisions made from this reference. Official source ↗
Legal Maximum Dimensions (no permit required)
- Width
- 8.5ft (102in)
- Height
- 13.5ft (162in)
- Length
- 40ft
- Gross Weight
- 80,000 lbs
- Single Axle
- 22,400 lbs
- Tandem Axle
- 36,000 lbs
Escort / Pilot Car Thresholds (see glossary for terms, certification requirements for the driver)
- Front escort required over
- 12ft wide
- Rear escort required over
- 12ft wide
- Both escorts required over
- 14ft wide
- Height escort required over
- 14ft tall
DC Metropolitan Police escort required for OS/OW loads. Very restrictive — most large loads must transit through MD/VA.
Travel Restrictions
- Night travel
- Generally restricted
- Weekend travel
- Generally allowed
- Sunday travel
- Generally restricted
Night travel prohibited for oversize. Sunday prohibited. Extremely restrictive urban environment. Federal buildings area requires special coordination.
Holiday blackouts: Major US holidays. Presidential inauguration and large federal events may close routes.
Superload Thresholds
- Width over
- 14ft
- Length over
- 80ft
- Weight over
- 100,000 lbs
Get a Permit
- Online portal
- https://ddot.dc.gov/service/permit-and-certification-administration
- Phone
- 1-202-671-2700
DC is extremely restrictive. Most loads should route around via I-495. Federal monument area requires NPS coordination.
Planning a move through District of Columbia?
Plan a truck-legal route that checks bridges and construction, or find a vetted transporter or escort.
Try the Route Planner Find an Escort